Issuu

The official student newspaper of Battle High School

Volume 2, Collection 2 Muriel Williams Battle High School

Friday, December 11, 2015

Terror In the West

The rise of ISIS and its global impact By: Hayden Elder

Above: The cast performed on elaborate sets and carried the audience away on a sea of song. Photographed by Morgan Evanoff.

Theater Department Performs Anything Goes

By: Morgan Evanoff

Battle High School’s dramatic arts program performed the musical Anything Goes this month, the second production of the school year. Directed by Mr. Rucker, Anything Goes is set on the ocean liner S. S. American heading to London. On the ship nightclub singer Evangelist Reno Sweeney is played by Montiera Ferrell-Nelson, who is accompanied by

a band of angels played by Pagie Flottman, Isabel Fagre, Kimberly Ellsworth, Lauren Young. The nightclub singer Reno’s good friend Billy Crocker, played by Cole Flottman, becomes a stowaway to be near his love, Hope Harcourt, who is played by Haley Mullen. Unfortunately Hope is engaged to the wealthy Lord Evelyn Oakleigh, played by Nicholas Reznick. Continued on page A5

ISIS (the common acronym for the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) has occupied American news almost permanently for the past few years. The Islamic State maintains a powerful hold on the daily lives of everyone within a foot of a computer. With the recent attacks in Paris, ISIS followers have once again shown their strength and willingness to destroy the lives of anyone who opposes their radical version of Islam. Every day, ISIS becomes stronger. People are joining the Islamic State in droves, whether they are Syrian or Iraqi, Australian or American - followers come from every corner of the globe and every walk of life. ISIS’s message, unfortunately, seems to speak to masses of people; and it spreads like wildfire. What is truly alarming about ISIS’s message is it’s lack of truth. Leaders

of the Islamic State have taken liberties with Islam’s word, effectively turning the Quran into their own elastic clause. For instance, the Quran does call for jihad to be used in the event that Islam is threatened by an outside force. In the past few years, the term jihad has also become a common word in the Western Hemisphere. It refers to the ancient practice of preserving the religion if Islam’s future is at stake. Unfortunately, terrorism and terrorist groups have stretched the word far from its original intent. Jihad does not call for the use of military action to preserve Islam. Originally, military action in a jihad was a sort of last resort, and the murder of innocents – such as women, children, and invalids - has never been allowed. Continued on page A4

Wrestling with Change Coach Bradley’s first season as a Spartan

By: Miranda Mattingley After wrestling coach Ben Smith moved to St. Louis and the team said their sorrowful goodbyes, everyone knew how hard it was going to be for someone to fill his shoes. Replacing a beloved coach is no easy task, but first year coach Kyle Bradley is up to the challenge. Like Smith, Bradley believes in the importance of schoolwork and the necessity of keeping grades up. Bradley also has similar coaching techniques, but it's his intensity that sets them apart. Every practice Bradley screams, "your mind quits before your body does!" while the whole team carries 45 pound weights above their heads while running laps around the gym because one guy got lazy during conditioning. When one wrestler breaks a rule, Bradley has the whole team

run an extra mile. If a wrestler slacks on squats, Bradley has the team do another set of ten with their partner on their backs. These are only a few of the ways that Bradley is shaping his wrestlers to be better athletes. It’s guaranteed that if a wrestler survives Bradley, they will do things right the first time they're asked, no matter if that's in the gym or the classroom. “The thing about wrestling is that it teaches you a mindset that relates to everything in life. That’s why I love it. In life are you going to let problems take you down and pin you? No, you’re going to fight!” Bradley says during one of his prepractice speeches. Continued on page A5

Above: Malachai Gardner handfights against Centralia. Photographed by Kristin Tatters.

Ag Day Draws Herds

FFA chapter brings agriculture to Battle By: Josie Nichols Battle kicked off its third annual Agriculture Day this semester with great success. Since Battle’s opening FFA members have organized the day to educate students and staff about agriculture. FFA members say the focus is to show “animals and their different uses, and also about how much agriculture is used in everyday life.” Members brought livestock and

small animals that students might not see everyday, and invited local agricultural organizations to showcase their programs. Caitlyn Lancaster attended Ag Day expecting to see the usual cow, goats, and chickens. “I saw all those animals plus a horse, kittens, dogs, and pigs.” said Lancaster. Continued on page A2 Above: JauVonya Cole hangs out with a dairy cow during the activities. Photographed by Noah Doolady.

IN THIS ISSUE... NEWS

SENIOR FUNDRAISING by Breezy Day AG DAY REPORT by Josie Nichols FIELD TRIP FOR BUDDHISM by Emily Adams ACT PREP WEEK by Ross Terry SPARKLER FUNDRAISER by Adrian Maddox TIMELINE OF PROTESTS by Madalynn Owens and Noah Doolady

OP/ED

ISIS IN PARIS by Hayden Elder WINTER GAME REVIEW by Hayden Elder ANYTHING GOES OPINION by Noah Doolady INSPIRING EDUCATORS by Hannah Dietzel

SPORTS

WRESTLING by Miranda Mattingley ATHLETE PROFILE by Roxy Garcia BASKETBALL PREVIEW by Natalie Tiffany

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ANYTHING GOES by Morgan Evanoff FEMINISM IN FILM by Noah Doolady WINTER FASHIONS by Hannah Dietzel BOOK REVIEW by Catt Harvey MUSIC REVIEWS by Madalynn Owens and Marc Chauvin

A2 News Students meet Tibetan Monk World Religion class hears words of compassion

By: Emily Adams

Above: The vibrant sunset provided a beautiful backdrop to the beginning of the movie night experience. Photographed by Brittany Brown.

Not So Scary Movie Night Hocus Pocus takes over the big screen

By: Breezy Day This year’s seniors have started their fundraising efforts off early in an order to raise as money as possible before prom. In the spirit of Halloween, senior officers decided to screen Hocus Pocus on the football field for a fun movie night. Mrs. Borgmeyer, a senior class sponsor, said, “We held this fundraiser for the senior class because they are responsible for paying for their own prom. We wanted to not only have an event for the seniors, but for the community as well.” Fellow class sponsor Mrs. Adams views the night as a success for students and the senior class budget. “We got great feedback

from it and we haven’t gotten any negative reviews yet, and we raised over twohundred dollars for the senior class,” said Adams. However, as prom approaches, seniors are still looking for more ways to bring in the cash. The senior class still has a ways to go in fundraising in order to pay for the end-of-theyear senior activities. Senior class President Brittany Brown said, “We are making t-shirts, bracelets, and we are even going to try to have a food day if we can.” “There are going to be more fundraising events such as Blue Cow, Powderpuff, and designing

our own senior shirts to sell,” said Adams. The exact amount of money needed for prom is still yet to be determined, but Adams estimates it’s around $3-4,000 and another source estimates it’s $8,000. The more specific details of prom are still in the works, but seniors have found out the date is April 23 and hope to hold the event at Parkade Plaza once contracts are signed. The prom committee has begun meeting. If you would like to be part of the schoology discussion group, contact Mrs. Borgmeyer on schoology.

Above: Darnell Fuller meets a chicken who politely pecks his finger. Top right: Andrea Nolla has the chance to hold a ferret between classes. Below right: Rachel Godbey cuddles with a kitten on her visit to the ag festival. Below story: Pigs visited BHS too. Photographed by Noah Doolady.

Ag Day Draws Herds Continued from page A1

By: Josie Nichols After meeting Battle student McKenzie Meyer’s goats Lancaster said she “learned how important Mckenzie’s dog is for keeping her goats safe.” Battle’s FFA members made a few new additions to the animals this year, including ferrets and a pot bellied pig. This year’s programs didn’t garner praise from everyone, however. Angela Crawley went down to see the animals in fourth block, but was wary of the smell and didn’t

think she learned much by looking at the animals. Crawley said she was “expecting to see animals I don’t see everyday like cows, horses, and pigs.” Overall Battle FFA still views the day as a success for students, and a tradition that will continue in the future. Members hope that students gained enjoyment and knowledge while making a few furry friends.

On an early September morning Battle’s World Religion students trekked across town to meet Tibetan monk the Venerable Champa Lhunpo. As students filled Hickman’s small theater, they were greeted by a smiling Lhunpo, dressed in traditional bright orange robes. Lhunpo told students that “the goal of Buddhism is to be more compassionate, more loving, more kind, and care more for other people.” With this goal in mind, Lhunpo has made it his mission to share his perspective with students. He started off by showing students examples of physical prayer unique to Tibetan Buddhism, including a handcrafted prayer bowl, beads, and flags. Lhunpo also spoke on the differences of Tibetan culture, joking, “In the west they build skyscrapers, but in Tibet we are thinking.” Underneath his playful words, Lhunpo aims to convey a more serious message of religious tolerance. As a citizen of Tibet, where 1.2 million people were killed under Chinese occupation, Lhunpo tries to teach forgiveness and understanding to students. “Never teach hatred. You’re dependent on your classmates and your community, it’s all interconnected,” Lhunpo said as he addressed students. This message resonated with World Religion student Isaiah Greimann, who said he used the experience to learn more about a culture he wasn’t familiar with. “If someone who is outside a religion tries

to speak on one, I really don’t think that the person could fully understand everything in that religion” said Greimann. “Bringing in speakers helps to solidify the message and give firsthand experience.” Battle’s World Religion teacher Mr. Soden is hoping that having firsthand experience will help students like Greimann achieve a greater understanding of the concepts he teaches in class. “I am not an expert, but I do find them very fascinating,” said Soden. “Having guest speakers allows an opportunity for me to be a student alongside the ones I teach.”After hearing Lhunpo speak, Soden says he took away a message of compassion and joy. “For me to be around him changed my mood for the rest of the day,” said Soden. Soden believes that students also learned important cultural distinctions of Tibetan Buddhism, like the belief in hell realms and demons that blend Shamanism with traditional Buddhism. As for Lhunpo, he hopes that students take away religious tolerance in a time of social unrest. After he spoke with the World Religion students, Lhunpo stayed after school at Hickman to speak on civil rights for the Tibetan people. Soden’s World Religion class will continue to have guest speakers throughout the year from different religions and culture to give students a new perspective on the subjects they study.

“In the west they build skyscrapers, but in Tibet we are thinking.”

News

Above: Battle students Korensa Bussing and Jacob Lopez attended the math session during ACT prep week. Photographed by Noah Doolady.

Gearing Up for the ACT Upperclassmen attend ACT prep week

By: Ross Terry The ACT is just around the corner and test preparations are underway. This year Battle has implemented an ACT prep week to help students get the best score possible. In 2014, Battle High School students scored the lowest in the district, below the national average of 21 by about 1 point. Overall, CPS students scored higher than the national average. Columbia Public School students averaged a 22.9 in English, compared to the statewide average of 21.4 In math, students scored 22.6, which is above the state average of 21. Reading was at 23.7 and 23.1 in science. Battle lagged behind with an average score of 20.7. Ms. Tinsley, a science teacher at Battle, was pleased with the score but thought they could still improve significantly. “As a teacher, this score also reflects back on us and how well we did teaching the students the information,” said Ms. Tinsley. Battle is attempting to raise scores by providing free testing and ACT prep. Taylor Moreau, a junior at Battle, chose to participate in ACT prep week because “this opportunity doesn’t come up every day to have help preparing for the ACT.” Moreau’s mother Nancy commented that

“Not many schools offer the opportunity to all their students to take the ACT for free so I really appreciate it and all the help they’re providing.” On the first day, November 30th, the main focus of the time was spent on general test taking tips and an overview of the prep week ahead. The next two days were spent on English prep and Math prep, which wasl be located in the Performing Arts Center and Media Center. Several teachers volunteered at the event to assist students with their studies. The last two days of the week were spent on Reading and Writing sections and were located in the Performing Arts Center and Science Prep which will be held in the Media Center. Time will tell whether Battle’s efforts will raise scores, but administration is hopeful that students will meet the national average this year. Juniors in the state of Missouri will take the ACT free of cost on April 19, 2016, including the writing portion of the exam. More information may be found online at ACT.org and dese.mo.gov

Sparklers Heading to Florida Dance Team is performing pre-game at Citrus Bowl

By: Adrian Maddox the Sparklers started fundraising mid-September, collecting tips at Sonic after a football game let out. They also fundraised by selling Shakespeare’s and G and D pizza. The final amount they needed was received through a generous donation. Jones considers the final sum, some $26,000, to be a huge success for the team. The Sparklers are excited to have the opportunity to travel to Florida for the bowl. Sparkler Adi Greening said the team wants to continue to “bring spirit to the games, and to

students overall.” The Battle cheerleaders helped fundraise for a small amount of time, but will not travel with the Sparklers to Orlando, Florida. Laura Kaufmann, a battle cheerleader said, “Despite the two teams being close there are not hurt feelings.” Tune in on January 1st, 2016 (New Year’s Day for all you who couldn’t figure that one out) and watch the Sparklers put on their performance before Michigan and Florida kick off.

Above: The Sparklers perform in front of the crowds at the Homecoming Pep Assembly. Photograhed by Miranda Mattingley.

This timeline researched and written by Madalynn Owens and designed by Noah Doolady.

The Spartan sparklers successfully fundraised at the beginning of November for their trip to the Citrus Bowl, where the Sparklers will perform during the pregame. When Sparklers attended a dance camp during the summer, the team brought home 21 blue ribbons. Because of their amazing performance, they were sent an invitation to the bowl in January. “It basically certified our trip to the bowl” said Meredith Jones, a member of the Sparklers. After the invitation

A4 Op / Ed Finding Inspiration

Terror in the West

Advice from Battle teachers

By: Hayden Elder

By: Hannah Dietzel The stress of being a senior in high school is overwhelming. Other people might think it’s scary not to know what they want to do when they get older, but I do know what I want to do, and I’m still more scared than a freshman on Jump Start Day. I want to become a teacher when I get older. I have taken steps to achieve my goals, and enrolled in teaching professions and child development. But still, I have so many questions that need answered. What if I don’t reach my goals? What if I end up doing something completely different? I need some advice from teachers here at Battle on how to be an inspirational teacher. First, I started with Mrs. Nandor who teaches chemistry to juniors. When I asked her how she inspired her kids, she had a very airtight strategy. “All I need to do is prepare these kids for their futures,” Nandor said. She wants her kids to be ready for college. Preparing for college is a daunting task, but this strategy is a good way to help students become aware of the college workload. Another inspirational teacher here at Battle is Mrs. Spriggs. The connection I saw that she has with her students is really inspiring. Everyone in that class looked so a happy to be there. The laughs and fun talks were all good; and when I saw the students’ artwork my mind was blown. Building a relationship with students seems to

Continued from page A1

be really important into becoming and being a teacher. To connect and teach to students, you must understand them as well. After enjoying the creative side of school, I decided I needed to try and understand the sports side of education as well. I asked Coach Alvis what he did to inspire his kids, and even though I’m not an athletic type, I still found his theories helpful. Alvis says his advice for students is to “Keep Pushing!” I absolutely love that motto, and how those little words communicate a big meaning. Whatever problems come your way in life, nothing should stop you from being you. Helping kids deal with their challenges is something I worry about before becoming a teacher. Communication is key. Alvis says, “I have regular talks with my students at school. Nothing about school, but about their homes lives. I try to find ways to connect with that kid and try to find out what’s going on.” The most important rule I heard from Alvis was to never give up, never let kids slip, and always try your hardest to be the best person you can be. What I have learned from these teachers is to never give up and to ask for advice when I need it. Teachers are an essential part of our lives, and by following in my teachers’ footsteps I hope to be influence my own students’ lives one day.

For an entity that claims to be the most pure Islam of all, the clear misuse of jihad as a way of destroying Western enemies by ISIS should be a red flag. Like their propaganda, the Islamic State is spreading fast. It has grown to encompass a sizeable chunk of Syria and Iraq. Their forces move quickly, penetrating Syrian and Iraqi defenses with some resistance. Recently, they have become a major threat to the oil infrastructure of both countries, and they fund their military with the profits from this stolen oil. In addition to seizing oil fields, the Islamic State has also shown a tendency to destroy ancient artifacts and archeological sites. In September of this year ISIS destroyed the Temple of Bel in Palmyra, Syria. This ancient ruin from the 1st and 2nd centuries is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage site and an important cultural center in the ancient world. ISIS fighters destroyed the main temple, and ransacked surrounding dig sites and tombs. What was their reason for destroying the site, and many others across the Middle East? They claim that these sites stand as idols to religions they see as inferior, but the Palmyrene gods have not been openly worshiped in thousands of years; most everyone in the Middle East is Islamic. This event is another reason why the Islamic State is so dangerous, their complete ignorance of other cultures and ideas means that

they will continue to destroy many more lives. The November 13th attacks in Paris marked ISIS’s advance deep into Western life. Now, the United States, Australia, Belgium, France, and many more countries are faced with the decision to fight the Islamic State, with a greater knowledge of what ISIS is capable of. In a similar fashion to George W. Bush’s preemptive strikes towards Al Qaeda and Saddam Hussein, these countries must decide whether it is time to put vast amounts of resources into another war in the Middle East. Another war which will be dangerous, unorthodox, and expensive. It is not a question of whether war will be required or not, ISIS has already declared war on every other culture besides their own. They will not rest until their “enemies” are wiped from this the face of the Earth. War will come, that is inevitable; and unfortunate. It is unfortunate that the only way to settle this conflict is by the loss of lives, but that may be the only way to stop the Islamic State. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of innocent lives could be saved with the commitment of troops to fight ISIS. On top of that, entire cultures, archeological sites, and the history in the Middle East could be saved. That will be the legacy of a war with ISIS, a legacy that will continue to help humanity for years to come.

Video Game Preview Best releases of 2015

By: Hayden Elder Fallout 4 Perhaps one of the most anticipated games of the year is Fallout 4. Fallout fans such as myself have been deprived of a new game in the franchise for nearly six years now, and it looks like Fallout 4 could be the best one yet. Bethesda has been very secretive of their new baby and all fans have to go off of is the multitude of trailers and their own imaginations. A couple of things are certain though: the story takes place in post-apocalyptic Boston, players come out of Vault 111 in Boston, and the game is filled with new features. The game runs on Bethesda’s new Creation physics and graphics engine, and has been completely revised since the last game, Fallout: New Vegas. Movements, dialogue (there are more than 111,000 lines of dialogue in the game), and scenery have all been overhauled. All in all, Fallout 4 is on track to be a crowd pleaser. COD Black Ops 3 Since the dawn of the first person shooter in the early 2000s, Call of Duty has been the franchise to beat. The series has debuted its newest title Call of Duty: Black Ops III. Black Ops III has been heavily anticipated, and Treyarch (the game’s development team) claims that

it is the most different Call of Duty yet. The game runs on a brand new physics and graphics engine, replacing the traditional running, jumping, and crawling with an advanced freerunning system. Treyarch has hinted at a complex storyline in the campaign mode; and reviews prove them right. There is also a revised Zombies mode with it’s own storyline. For a rapid, unique, and very Michael Bay style blow-em’ up, shooter, be sure to check out Call of Duty: Black Ops III. Star Wars Battlefront It is no joke that Star Wars has infiltrated almost every facet of popular culture since the saga began in 1977. In the early 2000s, Star Wars began a new life in video games with Star Wars Battlefront 1 & 2. The next installment in the series has now come to next gen consoles. The storyline intertwines with the newest movie: Star Wars: the Force Awakens, which releases in December. Ever since EA announced that the game would be released, people have been waiting for the Battlefield-inspired huge multiplayer modes that incorporated infantry battles and airborne warfare into the same battlefield. Finally, Star Wars fans will be able to live out their dreams of fighting the Empire in an X-Wing fighter over the frozen surface of Hoth.

Does Anything Go?

A penetrating look at the themes of the recent musical By: Noah Doolady

Above: Mrs. Spriggs helps Katie Carey with her project. Photographed by Noah Doolady.

Spearhead Staff Editor-in-Chief..................Emily Adams Online News Editor....................Hayden Elder Photography / Art Editor.........Natalie Tiffany Staff Writers: Breezy Day, Hannah Dietzel, Noah Dolady, Miranda Mattingley, Josie Nichols, and Madalynn Owens. Freelancers: Marc Chauvin, Roxy Garcia, Catt Harvey, Adrian Maddox, and Ross Terry.

On Friday, November 20, the much anticipated fall musical Anything Goes premiered on the shining stage of the PAC. Battle’s production of the show took on the period piece with victory rolled hair, gangsters, and racist stereotypes. The show started off great as the entire cast joined together in song and dance giving Broadway a run for its money. Actors delivered their lines with ease, microphones functioned without a hiccup, and the set was painted to perfection. Anything Goes should have been a homerun for Battle, but comedy was taken one step too far at the expense of racial stereotypes. A few scenes into the show, two actors walked onto the stage dressed in a poor imitation of “exotic” Chinese clothing. Hands were pressed together at their chests, they bowed when they were spoken to and spoke in broken english. The reaction to these characters were very mixed; about half of the audience laughed at the impression and the other half seemed to look around in disbelief at the portrayal. “It was disappointing,” said junior Jack Tallmage after watching the show. “It was in poor taste.” Mr. Rucker, music director of the production, found that because the racial stereotypes were accompanied by similar stereotypes, such as the

drinking Evangelical singer and hyper masculine captain, the play showed that everything could be humorous. “They live in a wheelhouse of all the stereotypes that are happening on the stage at the same time,” Rucker said. Many students thought that a disclaimer for the racism should have been announced before the show to prevent the shock of the insensitivity. “Individuals that don’t know the art form that they’re walking into do themselves a disservice not knowing what’s going to happen on stage,” Rucker explained that he believes education before the show was necessary to understand and appreciate the piece. Rucker suggested that researching the play would have prepared students for what they saw on stage. However, it is optimistic to think that people will understand the history of theater and racism before walking into the theater. Because many students left the theater not understanding the passé nature of this “comedy”, students that object to the racist nature of the play fear that the animosity will influence their peers. Rucker responded to the criticism, “I didn’t foresee that [reaction] before choosing the show.” Many believed that the depictions of gambling and gullibility and problematic behavior should have been removed from the script entirely.

Rucker said that this was not possible. “The script is a contracted work of art, so when we [Battle] purchase a show, we’re under strict scrutiny to keep the script as true as possible to the original art form that was created. So, in honoring the art form that was created by Cole Porter we followed that as much as possible,” Rucker said. This raises a question. If a piece of work exploits and humiliates a group of marginalized people, should Battle put it on at all? Is upholding tradition and art more important than creating a safe space for all students? “A safe place for student is more important [than upholding tradition],” sophomore Joelle Junio, Stage Manager, said. The responsibility of the school is to create an environment where all students feel respected and valid, yet now, the theater department uprooted everything the school has worked for to promote racial inclusion. Administration would not have allowed non-black students to portray black individuals in a 19th centurystyle behavioral black face because that would be racist. So why can students that are not east asian portray Chinese individuals say “ching-chongbing-bong” and be seen as acceptable comedy? In Anything Goes, everything goes, including racial stereotypes.

sports

Highlights of Semester Sports Memorable photos of Battle athletics

Left: Emily Murray spikes the ball supported by Lauren Hager and Michaela Karrick. Above: The football team gets pumped before the game against RockBridge. Photographed by: Natalie Tiffany.

Just Keep Swimmin’

Girls Basketball

Athlete profile of Kayla Pelt

By: Roxy Garcia Swimming, one of the world’s oldest sports, has long been the passion of athletes all over the world. Swimming was one of the noble skills of the samurai, and the sport was even featured in 1986’s Olympic Games in Athens Greece. Today, competitive swimming lives on among a small but dedicated group of athletes at Battle High. Kayla Pelt, swimmer on the Battle girls’ swim team, describes the sport as “Chaotic, crowded, and it can be uncomfortable if you’re not used to it.” Pelt is a sophomore but has been swimming for seven years. She started at just eight years old and

A look at the season to come

By: Natalie Tiffany is still going strong, but wrestling with her future in the sport. Pelt says she at least has “three more years of swim

“I like having Kayla on the team because she knows when to work.” before I have to decide if I want to swim in college.” Abbeh Barrett, a fellow swimmer, describes Pelt as extremely dedicated. She says Pelt is a supportive teammate with a tough side.

“I like having Kayla on the team because she knows when it’s time to work,” said Barrett. Maggie Classen, another teammate of Pelt’s, was hesitant to join the swim team until Pelt and Barrett persuaded her to try out. Classen knew beforehand that Pelt would be a great teammate because of her love for the sport. The girls’ season starts on December 12th, with their first meet at the Marquette Relays. They will be swimming on through January and on into February.

As cold weather returns the ladies of Battle basketball are heating up for the start of the season. The girls team finished up last year with a 12-11 record, and are embarking on their third year as a team. Player Maya Mouton said, “Last year’s record did not reflect our full potential, but we are looking to improve this season and go farther in postseason.” Mouton and teammate Lauren Watkins agree that the way to achieve their goals is through vigourous practice and becoming stronger through communication. They attend practices after school five days a week for two and a half hours as well as on Saturdays. Many players also practice on their own time working either on ball drills or playing competitively for the Amateur Athletic Union. When asked what their biggest challenge was teammates Williams, Mouton, and Watkins all turned to each other in unison and said “communication” with an uneasy laugh.

“We need to build stronger communication between all of the players by constantly talking throughout the game, because once we do that we will have a strong defense” Watkins stated. All the time and sweat players spend in the gym is accompanied by off the court work as well. “Even after practice is over we have homework we all watch the opposing team’s videos, check their stats, and learn their weaknesses so that we can expose them.” said Williams. The team hopes that all their hard work will be reflected when they step onto the court to compete. The girls basketball team played Waynesville December 6th with a loss of 74-49 and hope to come back stronger in their next game. The team’s schedules are available at battlespartans.com.

Wrestling with Change Continued from page A1

By: Miranda Mattingley He explains that sports are going to end one day, no matter what, but the mental things that are taken from the sport are the real reason people do it. Bradley pulls from the techniques of all of his past coaches to influence his own coaching method. Along with Coach Toal, Coach Lindsay and Coach Shea, he claims to have the best coaching staff in the state. Bradley plans on influencing the whole school with his wrestling program by advertising for

wrestling more than they have in past years. He’s filling a showcase with gear and all the wrestlers’ pictures, then choosing a wrestler of the week to get people to recognize the hard work that they all put in to make the team better. “I want people to know about wrestling here, like they do football.” Bradley states after explaining the shrine idea to his managers. “We need people to come to the duals and tournaments to support our team and the only way that’ll happen is if

we start getting people to notice wrestling.” During their first varsity tournament, six wrestlers place in the top four. Andrew Shea and Denez Bradford both won all their matches making them champions of their weight classes. Hunter Smith lost in his final match earning him second place. Then Zaquiel Houston, Colton Snyder and Joe Magee all had falls on their last match earning them fourth.

Left: Chris Carter pins a Moberly wrestler. Above: Brendan Anich won his match. Photographed by Kristin Tatters.

A6 Arts & Entertainment

Music Review

Detailed updates on your favorite artists

Hasley: Blowin’ Up PopPunk

By: Madalynn Owens

Halsey has recently blown up in the pop punk music universe. Born Ashley Frangipane in New Jersey, the now 21 year old sings about whatever she sets her mind to. She recently released the album Badlands and immediately kicked off an on-going US tour. After dealing with financial issues, she released the song Ghost that gained her many calls from various record companies. The track later landed on her EP, Room 93. First listen of Halsey and she comes off as a slightly more pop punk version of Lorde; her turquoise cropped hair

and simple 90’s sense of style adds to the edgy vibe. Badlands is the perfect record for driving down the outer road with all the windows down on a crisp fall night, but her supernatural voice is the perfect background to almost any occasion. Shortly after Badlands was released Hasley gushed on Twitter about her upcoming song with Justin Bieber. While you’re sitting around for this promising collaboration, try her solo songs out for a spin. Listen to Badlands in through your morning routine and you’ll be ready to own the day.

Melanie Martinez: Voice of Experience By: Madalynn Owens

Melanie Martinez, a native of New York, kicked off her career as a finalist on The Voice in 2012. In early 2014 she released her EP, Carousel, gaining her a devoted fan base. Late this fall Martinez released her album named Crybaby, a sickly sweet twist of childhood vibes. The entire album follows the theme of its title with songs such as Milk and Cookies and Dollhouse. The childhood theme also goes into the lyrics of all her songs distorting the happy preschool vibe portrayed. Crybaby’s album art showcases Martinez’s signature hairstyle, a half-and-half dye job, often half black

and the other a bright hue. The album has gotten loads of publicity as it debuted as Number Six on the Billboard 200 charts, but shockingly hasn’t gotten much radio play. Her album release also kicked off a tour in Oceania and its surrounding areas. Don’t let the packaging confuse you, Martinez is definitely not making kid stuff - her songs hint at broken families, drug and alcohol abuse alongside unhealthy relationships. Try Playdate or Sippy Cup for a psychedelic start to your day.

Coldplay: an Album for Romantics

By: Marc Chauvin

With a trippy song that utilizes overlapping vocals to give it a third dimension feel, Coldplay couldn’t have done better by starting their 2002 release album A Rush of Blood to the Head with “Politik.” Shifting towards “In My Place” continues the trippy feel with elongated tones covered with beautiful vocals that range from mid to high and continues the love theme by stating things such as “I’ll wait for you.” The song “God Put a Smile Upon Your Face” has a strong guitar flow while managing to sound like Glam 80’s Rock with a religious theme. As if they were about to miss their turn, after the third song, Coldplay whipped the wheel right on back to love songs with the trippy beats and elongated vocals. With

most of the vocals staying in the high octane, choosing clocks as their next song was an extremely good idea. It shifts from the already sad to depressingly beautiful, a wonderful bad to worse situation. The album’s headline song, “A Rush of Blood to the Head,” is saddening and makes you want to kiss someone in the downpour just for the romantic gesture. Ending this album with “Amsterdam” leaves you feeling like you just had to rethink your whole life. You thank Coldplay as “Amsterdam” comes to an end for opening your eyes to the sweet nectarine they gave you that is “A Rush of Blood to the Head.” Recommended for any hopeless romantic.

Above: Emily Murray wears a blue vest over a neutral gray shirt. Photographed by Emily Adams.

Rad Fads

Winter fashion trends By: Hannah Dietzel Winter has always been my favorite season. Not just for Christmas and Thanksgiving, but for the fashion. The season where you finally get to wear the clothes that you craved wearing all summer long. High waisted jeans, crop tops, and sweaters. Ugh, just thinking about it gets me excited! This is the time of year where we bust out our Uggs that have been hiding in the closet all summer. Another added bonus to the cold is the excuse to wear thigh high boots of all different colors. Dark browns and tans are great colors for winter shoes, but lighter colors should be avoided as they will get dirty from the snow, slush and everything negative about winter. Another great point of winter fashion is getting to wear those fuzzy cardigans I loved to wear a year prior. They come in a variety with red ones, blue ones, grey ones, and black ones. These are the colors we all should be rockin’ this year for the winter time. Let’s not forget to mention scarves. Above: Daniella Rele pairs a black infinity scarf with They are a necessity when it comes black tights and combat boots. Photographed by Emily to the cold, but also when it comes to Adams. fashion! The bigger the scarf, the better. It looks cute, plus you’re warm. It’s a win/win! You can never wear enough black, winter or summer, but in the winter-time you can jazz up a black outfit with cute gloves, boots and hair styles. There’s a never ending list of options when it comes to looking cute without even trying. So before school throw on a long dress, cardigan, and boots and then you are good to go!

Feminism in Film

By: Noah Doolady

Dynamic female leads of Netflix

It’s not news that representation in media, especially film, is not created equal. Although the internet now provides a broad variety of media to consume, what’s considered “Top Rated” consists of little more than action packed films saturated with white men. Although there is nothing “wrong” with enjoying The Fast and the Furious or The Avengers, as a generation with media so heavily ingrained in our culture, I encourage readers to expand their Netflix horizons. As someone who aims to consume socially conscious media, I’ve poured through pages and pages of recommendations and added far too many films to my Netflix queue, focusing specifically on film depicting dynamic female characters outside the norm of cinema. No feminist film critique could exist without at least a mention of the Bechdel Test. The Bechdel Test is a simple way of measuring basic female representation of film. The rules are as follows: There must be at least two named female characters... who talk to each other... about something other than a man. This test can be fun to apply to movies, though the results of whether a film passes or not are almost always disappointing. This is not, however, how I chose the films presented below. There are plenty of films with small casts or other circumstances where a dynamic woman is present without following these rules. On the flip side, there are many films that pass the test, but poorly represent women or are objectifying. Regardless, the Bechdel Test is certainly something to keep in mind. Without further ado, what follows is a list of recommendations of five films depicting dynamic female characters. A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night (2014) Starring, produced, and written by women, this Iranian Western takes a modern twist on a classic Vampire tale. A young woman wearing a dark cloak skateboards through the streets of Iran, hunting men who disrespect women. Featuring stunning visuals and cinematography, this film shot in black and white and is a must watch for lovers of the arts. Anjelah Johnson: Homing Show (2013) / Not Fancy (2015) Finding the few great female comics in a sea of sexist comedians is like finding a needle in a haystack. Lucky for us, Anjelah Johnson has multiple Netflix specials just waiting to be clicked. These comedy specials feature comic Anjelah Johnson hilariously speaking

on her life and experiences as a latina who can’t speak spanish, a female comic, and her awkwardness in the light of fame. Johnson knows how to poke fun at others while while using just the right amount of self-deprecating. Her dry humor and impressions will get anyone laughing. Electrick Children (2012) A young Mormon girl finds a rock-and-roll cassette in her conservative home that changes her perspective on life. After discovering that she is pregnant, she sets out into the city to find the singer from the cassette, who she believes impregnated her through his music. This film gives a fresh and beautiful perspective on adolescence and the transition between childhood and adulthood. This adaptation of the story of the Virgin Mary is wistful and thought provoking. Girlhood (2014) It’s rare to find a film starring four black girls, but even rarer is finding a film starring four French black girls. Girlhood follows the shy teenager, Marieme, and her struggle with making it out of an abusive family situation and finding her place among her friends and the world. Coming of age films tend to be drool and predictable, but Girlhood is most profound and unparalleled Bildungsroman films I’ve seen in years. Marina Abramovic: The Artist is Present (2012) This documentary follows Serbian performance artist, Marina Abramovic as she prepares for an installment at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. For over 700 hours, Abramovic sat silently at a table where strangers were invited to sit across from her. Through the documentary Abramovic explores her past as a female performance artist. Honorable Mentions: Heathers (1998), Frances Ha (2012), Amelie (2001), Kill Bill (2003), Jack and Diane (2012), and Heavenly Creatures (1994).

Arts & Entertainment A7 Anything Goes Continued from page A1

By: Morgan Evanoff

Above, top: The cast of Anything Goes poured down the set’s staircases in a whole-cast number. Above, bottom: Cole Flottman and Montiera Ferrell-Nelson synchronized their dancing while singing on stage. Photographed by Morgan Evanoff.

Becoming a part of the love triangle on board the luxury liner are Public Enemy #13 Moonface Martin, played by Zachary Myers, and his sidekick Erma played by Kate Kaufmann. With the help of some ornate disguises and tap-dancing Reno and Martin join sides to help Billy in his quest to win Hope’s heart. An interesting fact about Anything Goes is that the Broadway play was originally performed on November 21, the same date Mr. Rucker unknowingly chose for the show at Battle. Mr. Rucker said, “I thought this musical was probably the most unified that has ever been… it was just amazing to witness something that was so connected.” The cast of Anything Goes agreed with Mr. Rucker that the musical was a great chance to become more connected. “The musical was an experience I won’t forget, I met new people and made new friends and became

closer with people I already new. There were many laughs and smiles and when we were sad we helped each other, it was truly a great experience.” said Kristen Sattler, who played the steward. Not only did the actors view it as a great bonding experience but also as a quality musical production. “My experience with the musical was awesome this was my first was actually performing in a theatre production and this experience has inspired me to do even more of them.” said Ian Graves who played characters Ling and the Sailor. Ian’s experience is what Mr. Rucker is looking for. “Change yourself and develop yourself by taking a jump into the unknown,” said Rucker, adding that by taking a risk you will find out who you are. The theater department’s next performance will be the play Anonymous, which will be performed the first weekend of March.

A Lighter Look at Adolescent Depression By: Catt Harvey It’s Kind of a Funny Story, by Ned Vizzini, was inspired by Vizzini’s brief hospitalization for depression in 2004. This novel shows that depression is not all that society has dressed it, it can be shown in a lighter way. It effectively extinguishes some of the burning stigmas surrounding mental illness, such as depressed people having the inability to succeed or recover. It also shows the reality of major depression as felt by a teenager; the difficulties getting class work done, the effect friends may have, the shame or embarrassment felt surrounding the fact that they’re just not normal, and worst of all, eating. The plot begins when 15-yearold Craig Gilner aces a test to get into an incredibly prestigious private school in Manhattan after studying intensely for the entire school year prior. As the workload increases Craig’s depression does as well. All of his “tentacles,” the things that stress him and make everything worse, are getting to him. His best friend is a genius and a stoner, who also happens

Book review of It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini

to be dating the girl Craig is in love with. His family is supportive, but sometimes too much, and his classes are almost impossible, not to mention his psychiatrist is as cliche as they come. He gets low enough that he has planned his suicide; he will leap off the Brooklyn Bridge while his family is asleep. As he readies himself to leave, he picks up a book that directs him to call a suicide hotline. He does so and the man on the other end tells him that he should go to the hospital, and Craig follows his advice. He is admitted to a nearby hospital, in the adult ward while the adolescent is being renovated. Craig is quick to make friends friends during his stay, but also reignites a childhood passion, and makes a life changing decision involving his school and his old friends. This book is written entirely in first person, from Craig’s point of view. Through this viewpoint Vizzini solidifies the idea that the book is about adolescent depression. Vizzini also conveys a broader message; that depression doesn’t make someone inherently

lazy, negative, or just generally bad. Craig talks like a teenager, thinks like a teenager, and is displayed as a teenager should be. He parties, deals with peer pressure, lies to his parents about his own activities, and is extremely curious about his own sexuality, which makes him a little awkward. Vizzini writes Craig’s character very realistically. He has his ups and downs, at one point saying that he “made that test his bitch,” when discussing the admission test for Executive Pre- Professional High School. This “up-and-down” shows the possibility of feeling good when you have major depression. The overarching theme of the novel is self- acceptance and the reality of being placed in a mental hospital. A majority of this book set in a mental hospital and is, as Vizzini himself stated, 85% true. There is a certain diversity with the patients, one fears that gravity will turn off, another is the self proclaimed president of the floor and deals with psychosis, then there are plenty that are never seen because they don’t leave their rooms. There are

also patients that are social, that seem almost completely normal, excluding the fact that they are in a mental hospital. Vizzini begins simply with “it’s so hard to talk when you want to kill yourself,” but pieces from the final part are far different. Craig chooses that he’s done with having regrets, bad friends, and his tentacles. Even so, he is aware that he still suffers with depression, “I’m not better you know. The weight hasn’t left my head... I could fall back into it... head to the Brooklyn Bridge. All of that is still there.” This awareness shows an amount of control and acceptance. He can cope, he knows his limits well now. Craig’s situation is relatable to some, but others may pity him. He’s only a kid after all, but to the young adults that suffer with similar things reading it see themselves in this 15 year old boy, trying to make it through. Due to the fact that this novel is based on Vizzini’s own life, it adds a certain authenticity. Craig has weaknesses, some found when speaking to some of the people from the hospital, like he’s

pretty bad with girls. He has his strengths, which shine when he draws his maps. The maps are his coping mechanism, and coping mechanisms are a universal concept. Everyone has their way of dealing with life when it gets to be too much, some read, some write, some do drugs. Any form of distraction may be a coping mechanism, even reading It’s Kind of a Funny Story. It’s Kind of A Funny Story has been well received since it was written. The novel received recognition as the Best Book For Young Adults from the American Library Association only a year after being published. Critics gave some mixed reviews, but was met with applause from some major publications, like the New York Times. Then in late 2010, a film adaptation was released. Vizzini’s hit book reportedly took only a month to write. For a book written in that small time frame, with that kind of recognition, it must be pretty damn good.

Semester in Review A8

2015 Fall Semester in Photos Your photographic guide to the BHS fall semester

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Photos, as numbered: 1. Dillon McCann, Catherine Harris, and Collin Pounds kick off the 2015 school year at the Call to Battle community event in August. Photographed by Madalynn Owens. 2. Jacob Bock performs with the band and the Spartanettes at the University of Missouri durng Mayhem at Mizzou. Photographed by Natalie Tiffany. 3. Coach Henderson gives a pep talk to the softball team mid-season. Photographed by Natalie Tiffany. 4. Javier Landa learns biology from Dr. Popham. Photographed by Natalie Tiffany. 5. Katherine Kalman, Rory Dinkins, and Katherine Dempsey perform during the fall orchestra concert. Photographed by Hayden Elder. 6. Kate Kauffmann, Brittany Zuniga, and Esmeralda Loredo attend the homecoming dance with friends from other schools. Photgraphed by Noah Doolady. 7. Brevinn Tyler leads a chants during the homecoming pep assembly this fall. Photographed by Noah Doolady.